Measuring the Impact of COVID-19 on Microfinance Borrowers in Paraguay and Myanmar

Myanmar Paraguay Financial Inclusion Entrepreneurship & Private Sector Development

Measuring the Impact of COVID-19 on Microfinance Borrowers in Paraguay and Myanmar

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Researchers

Nathan Fiala, Lise Masselus

Abstract

The coronavirus pandemic imposes not only a global health threat but also an economic shutdown in many countries. Such a shock poses a particularly large risk for the poor in developing countries who often have highly vulnerable income sources, limited savings, and a lack of adequate safety nets to fall back on. Self-employment and access to credit might affect the ability of households to mitigate, cope with, and recover from an aggregate shock. In this research, we will conduct telephone surveys with a sample of 2,035 female entrepreneurs in rural Paraguay and 2,711 farmers and business owners in rural Myanmar to provide evidence on whether self-employment and access to credit affect households’ resilience to cope with the consequences of COVID-19. 

Project Outcomes of Interest

Employment and income, poverty, coping strategies and social safety net, resilience, food security, subjective wellbeing, attitudes and knowledge about COVID-19

Impact Goals

  • Build resilience and protect the financial health of families and individuals
  • Build resilient and adaptable businesses and employment opportunities
  • Improve women’s health, safety, and economic empowerment

Project Data Collection Mode

  • CATI (Computer-assisted telephone interviewing)

Link to Pre-Registration

https://www.socialscienceregistry.org/trials/5879

Results Status

No Results Yet